Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Medical Conditions, Allergies, and Food Intolerances

Medical conditions and allergies

Some women have specific health needs while they are pregnant or breastfeeding, because of a medical condition. These conditions include diabetes, celiac disease, renal disease, and phenylketonuria (PKU). If you have a medical condition, ask your doctor or health care provider for advice about food choices while you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Other women may have specific needs because of a food allergy, such as egg, nut, or wheat allergy. If you have a food allergy, ask your doctor for advice about food choices while you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

In addition, if you have any allergies, or your family has a history of allergies, ask your doctor about avoiding common food allergens, such as peanuts, while you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you are breastfeeding and your baby has a medical condition or a food allergy, visit your doctor and follow his or her advice about your food choices.

You can also take a lactase pill or drops that help you digest lactose before eating or drinking milk products. Also, check with your doctor for his or her advice if you have trouble digesting milk products.

In addition, many people who have a problem digesting lactose can usually eat or drink: